Cleaning a storage unit can be tricky, whether it’s full of things that mean a lot to you or you haven’t maintained it. The accumulation of furniture, artwork, knick-knacks, and dust can quickly become overwhelming. You can sort through the clutter and reclaim storage space by organizing and planning.
We’ll show you how to clean and organize your storage unit with essential things to consider. We will examine different choices to sell, donate, or eliminate the items. We’ll also talk about hiring movers or junk removal services and how much it may cost. Follow these steps to turn a messy storage unit into a functional space. Organize your belongings and choose wisely what to keep or discard. This way, you will gain control over your storage and have a tidy space. Let’s dive in and make cleaning out your storage unit as seamless as possible.
Why Clean Out a Storage Unit?
There are multiple reasons why you should clean out your storage unit. There are strong reasons to tidy up and arrange your belongings, even if they seem obvious.
Cost
One significant factor is the cost associated with keeping a storage unit. Storage facilities may offer low rates initially, but the fees can increase later.
Storage facility owners know that cleaning out a storage unit can be hard work, and most people want to do something other than do it. So, they take benefit of this and make money. Once your belongings are stored away, it becomes easier to leave them there. To understand how much you’ll spend, add up all the costs of renting the place. You may be surprised by what you’ve spent.
Average storage unit costs
On average, the monthly expense of renting a storage unit hovers around $190. However, the actual prices can vary based on unit size and location. Smaller units cost around $90 monthly, and larger units can be nearly $300.
Let’s consider a scenario where you rent a modest, basic unit. This means you would be shelling out $1,080 per year. Pricing varies by region. Some places cost more while others are cheaper. It’s essential to keep this in mind. Some storage places can take care of the temperature for extra money.
Ask yourself if storing your possessions is worth the cost. Sometimes it costs more to keep them than they are worth.
Burden
There is a lot of income to be made by storage facility owners since people want to keep their stuff private. One’s belongings, even if away from home, can be burdensome.
There’s a feeling that it’s essential to deal with these things, but they keep getting put off. The more bills you get, the more responsible you have to be for taking care of what’s in storage.
Purpose
Why did you get the storage unit in the first place? Often, people keep it to avoid going through their things, even if they forget why they got it. It ultimately becomes an expensive method of holding onto unnecessary possessions.
Do you have any good reason to keep renting the place? Sometimes, it might make sense, but that’s very uncommon. Think carefully about why you’re keeping your storage unit and its contents.
What occurs when belongings are left in a storage unit?
Have you considered giving away all your stuff and not paying for your storage unit? If you do, the unit might be sold.
Read through the contract carefully when you get a storage unit. It will provide insight into the consequences if you forsake your unit. You might see your things on Storage Wars soon.
How to clean out a storage unit before you begin
Consider the following things before cleaning out a storage unit.
Identify the reason for decluttering your storage space.
Cleaning out a storage unit? First, think about these things:
Determine the purpose of decluttering your storage:
Do you want to clear everything from the storage unit or make it neater and easier to use? Are you thinking of using a smaller space for storage? Knowing why you want to clean the storage unit and what you want to achieve before starting. It is often advisable to completely let go of the storage unit.
Avoid transferring unnecessary items to your home:
Keeping what you need or value is essential when cleaning your storage unit. Only bring back some of what you stored. Belongings may end up in storage because they must be more helpful in your daily life. Make sure you keep things that you love and need. Only fill your home with things you need.
You can clean your storage unit better if you focus on these points. Doing so will help you get rid of things you don’t need and keep your storage organized.
Can you tell me why I am emotionally attached to certain things?
Deep emotions can often accompany the process of decluttering. It can be challenging to part ways with possessions that have been with us throughout our past.
We get attached to things because we give them too much importance. Many people think that getting rid of these things means losing the memories and moments they hold.
It’s okay to let go of things to cherish special times and the people involved. Reminding ourselves that people are not defined by their possessions is crucial. Letting go of items left by loved ones doesn’t make our memories of them less special.
When dealing with the items of a loved one who has passed away in a storage unit, it’s crucial to be kind to yourself and approach decluttering with care. During this journey, it’s okay to feel different emotions. You can also let go of your belongings if needed.
Start decluttering when you’re in the right mood.
Starting the decluttering process requires being in the appropriate mindset. Many people keep their things for various reasons. Knowing these reasons can help you begin decluttering.
When you feel ready to let go, decluttering is easier and quicker. Embracing this mindset allows you to make decisions more decisively.
A storage unit provides an excellent opportunity for significant decluttering. Use this as motivation to adopt a ruthless approach in determining which items must be let go of.
What Do I Need to Declutter My Storage Unit?
Are you ready to begin? Here are some tips on cleaning a storage unit.
Identify the items you want to KEEP by taking a mental inventory:
Before cleaning your storage, consider which things matter the most to you. Create a list of the items you want to keep, and keep it in mind throughout the process. It’s common to forget what you’ve stored in the unit over time, so this step will help you prioritize.
Create a realistic plan for cleaning your storage unit:
Start by deciding where to begin decluttering your storage space. Also, set a timeline for completing the task. Cleaning out a storage unit can take longer than expected, so be ready. Ensure your vehicle is big enough to carry all the garbage and things you don’t want.
Gather the necessary supplies for decluttering:
To declutter your storage unit, have these supplies nearby:
Bring lots of sturdy garbage bags since you’ll need more than you think. Use strong contractor bags instead of kitchen trash bags if you throw away many things.
Prepare enough boxes to help you arrange your things while sorting through them. Different box sizes help sort and stack.
Tape: Ensure you have packaging tape to seal the boxes securely. This will keep the contents protected during transportation or while in storage.
Scissors: Keep a pair of scissors or a box cutter within reach. These tools are helpful for opening boxes that were packed or sealed before.
Markers: Utilize permanent features to label your boxes accurately. Indicate the contents or the designated category of each box. This label will help you find things quickly. You won’t have to open every box to know what’s inside.
It’s a good idea to wear gloves if your storage unit is dusty or dirty or if you last cleaned it a while ago. This will protect your hands while handling items. Protect your hands from germs and hold objects better by using them.
Wear a mask to protect your breathing. Dust and dirt can build up over time and harm your lungs. Wearing a mask helps you breathe cleaner air while cleaning up.
Categorize and label your boxes and bags:
When rearranging your storage unit, use separate boxes or bags to organize items by category. This makes decluttering easier. Here are the different kinds you can use:
Keep Items that you want to keep and continue storing in your unit. You still find these belongings valuable or sentimental value to you.
Donate Belongings that are in good condition but no longer serve your purpose. These items can be given away to charitable organizations or individuals in need.
Trash: Items that are damaged, broken, or no longer usable. It would help to throw these away correctly to keep your storage area clean and leave enough space.
You can put items that you think are valuable and can be sold in the “Sell” category. You can sell these things later to make money by exploring different options.
If you have difficulty making decisions or letting go of things, you can use the second chance box. It’s optional. This box is meant for unsure items, allowing you to revisit them later. Setting a deadline for yourself is recommended. It should be about three to six months from now. It will help you make a final decision about these things. Label the box with the deadline to keep track.
Use the second chance box wisely. Make sure to decide on only a few things. We aim to help you declutter effectively, with some room for tough decisions.
Things to Get Rid of in Storage Units
Do you need help getting motivated to declutter your storage unit? Here are some ideas to begin with!
Establish your guidelines.
Before you begin decluttering, consider setting your own rules. You can get rid of things you last used a year ago or need a specific place in your home.
It’s up to you to determine the approach that suits you best. Once you establish your rules, make sure to stick to them consistently. If you need help deciding what to eliminate, read this article with questions to guide you.
Handling sentimental items
Letting go of items with sentimental value can be challenging. Take the time to think about what you want to keep instead of what you are getting rid of.
Some people take pictures of sentimental things before getting rid of them. Others feel it just creates more mess. Remember, there’s no right or wrong approach here. Choose what works best for you.
Find new homes for your belongings.
If you’re ready to let go of things with emotional value, you can give them to someone who will cherish and use them.
Consider sharing your items on a local Buy Nothing group or a similar platform if your friends and family aren’t interested. It’s a rewarding experience to pass on a particular item to someone who will find joy in having it in their home.
Storage Unit Downsizing: How to Make Money
If you have things in your storage unit that you don’t need anymore, you can try selling them. You should think about a few things before deciding if this is the right choice for you. If you want to make money selling your stuff, these tips can be helpful.
Utilize Facebook Marketplace to advertise your storage clutter:
Facebook Marketplace is a great platform for selling items to local individuals. Additionally, consider listing your items on local buy and sell groups within Facebook. When meeting with potential buyers, choose a safe and comfortable location. Opt for public places and consider bringing someone along with you.
Determine if selling on eBay is worthwhile:
The worthiness of selling your items on eBay depends on several factors. First, check the prices of similar collectibles on the platform to see if yours are valuable. Sellers can list items at any price, but checking the selling prices is crucial. Consider the extra work and money needed to pack and send the things.
Utilize Poshmark to sell high-end clothes and accessories:
Poshmark is an excellent option for reselling designer clothes, shoes, and purses. This website is great for selling high-quality items. You can find interested buyers and get a fair price for your items.
Consider consignment shops for vintage clothing:
You can sell your old clothes at a vintage clothing consignment shop nearby. It could be a good option if you no longer wear them. These shops have the tools to handle old things and draw people who like those items.
Use Craigslist to sell large appliances or furniture from your storage unit:
Craigslist is old, but people still use it to buy and sell things. You can use Craigslist to avoid putting items for sale on Facebook Marketplace. It’s a good option for selling furniture or big appliances. You can arrange for buyers to meet you at the storage unit, simplifying the pickup process.
Organize a yard sale to sell your decluttered items:
A yard sale is an excellent way to eliminate things you don’t need from your storage unit. It provides an opportunity to sell many items over a single weekend. Planning for items that don’t sell and choosing how to donate them is an intelligent decision.
With these tips, you can sell your stuff from a storage unit: be safe, make it easy, and get the most money.
Do you Need to Hire Professional Help to Declutter My Storage Unit?
You might not need to hire someone to declutter your storage unit. Having a friend or family member to support you can give helpful motivation during the process.
Feeling too much to handle and can’t make progress? Consider hiring a decluttering pro to help. It’s vital to know that while they can help, deciding what to keep and discard is up to you.
Is it a good idea to hire junk removal services?
If you have a storage unit with large and old things, hiring a junk removal service can help you clean it. You should contact nearby junk removal companies and ask for a price quote. You can check the costs and choose wisely.
Naturally, it is preferable that your storage unit only partially consists of trash. If that’s the situation, hiring a junk removal service is even more critical. You can get professional help to clear your storage space. This makes cleaning easy and thorough.
Storage Units may be hard to eliminate, but it’s worth it.
Getting rid of a storage unit can be difficult, but it’s worth it. You’ll save money and feel free to keep things you don’t need. Clearing out a storage unit can be challenging, but these tips can help you let go of things you no longer need.
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FAQ’s
How do I start cleaning out and decluttering my storage unit?
Begin by planning and setting aside dedicated time to work on the task. Sort items into keep, donate, sell, or discard categories. Start with one section or box at a time, and gradually work through the entire unit.
What supplies do I need for cleaning out a storage unit?
You may need the following supplies:
- Sturdy boxes or bins for organizing
- Trash bags for discarding items
- Labels and markers for categorizing
- Cleaning supplies (broom, dustpan, cleaning solution) to clean the unit once it’s empty
How do I decide what to keep and what to get rid of?
Ask yourself if the item holds sentimental value, is still valid, or has been used within the past year. If the answer is no, consider selling, donating, or discarding it. Be honest and avoid holding onto items you no longer need or want.
Where can I donate items from my storage unit?
Many charitable organizations, such as Goodwill, Salvation Army, or local shelters, accept donations of gently used items—research local donation centers to find the best options for the items you wish to donate.
What should I do with items I want to sell?
You can sell items through online marketplaces (e.g., eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace), yard sales, or consignment shops. Take photos, write detailed descriptions, and set fair prices to attract potential buyers.
How can I optimize the space in my storage unit?
Utilize storage containers, shelves, and stacking methods to maximize vertical space. Label boxes and create an inventory list to make it easier to find specific things when needed. Keep frequently accessed items towards the front for convenience.
Should I clean the storage unit after decluttering?
It’s best to clean the unit before returning the remaining items. Sweep or vacuum the floor, wipe down surfaces, and remove cobwebs or dust. This helps maintain cleanliness and prevent potential damage to your belongings.
How often should I declutter my storage unit?
It’s beneficial to declutter your storage unit regularly, ideally once a year or every few years. Regular decluttering helps prevent unnecessary accumulation and ensures that the items stored are still relevant and helpful to you.
What measures should I take to protect my belongings in a storage unit?
Use appropriate packing materials, such as sturdy boxes, packing peanuts, and bubble wrap, to protect fragile items. Avoid stacking heavy items on top of delicate ones. Consider using climate-controlled storage units for temperature-sensitive belongings. Additionally, check your storage unit periodically to ensure no signs of pests or water damage.
What should I do with important documents or valuable items?
Keep important documents like passports, birth certificates, and legal paperwork in a secure place at home. Consider keeping valuable items in a safe deposit box at a bank or storing them securely within your home.
Remember, every storage unit cleanout is unique, so adjust these tips to suit your specific needs and preferences.
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